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Nutrient Management in Pointed Gourd Crop Information
Pointed gourd or Parwal (Trichosanthes dioica) is an important vegetable crop grown in India, Bangladesh, and other countries in Asia. It is a climber vine with very tender fruits that can be eaten cooked or raw. To get good yields of pointed gourd, proper nutrient management is essential. Here’s some information on nutrient management in pointed gourd crop.
Soil requirements for pointed gourd crop
Pointed gourd can be grown in a wide range of soils, from sandy loam to clay loam, but it prefers well-drained fertile soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should be well-prepared, free from weeds, and have good soil structure. Before planting, the soil should be plowed and harrowed thoroughly. An application of 10 to 20 t/ha of farmyard manure or compost is recommended.
Fertilizer requirements for pointed gourd crop
Pointed gourd requires a balanced application of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. A fertilizer dose of 40:80:40 kg NPK/ha is recommended for pointed gourd in the field. However, the actual dose of fertilizer will depend on the soil fertility, previous crop history, and organic matter content. Nitrogen fertilization is essential for vegetative growth, while phosphorus and potassium are important for flowering and fruiting.
Application of micronutrients
Apart from the major nutrients, pointed gourd also requires micronutrients like zinc, boron, and iron. Deficiency of these micronutrients can lead to poor growth and yield. Application of these micronutrients can help in overcoming the deficiency. A foliar spray of zinc sulfate (0.5%), borax (0.1%), and ferrous sulfate (0.5%) can be done during vegetative growth and flowering stages.
Timing and method of fertilizer application
The fertilizer should be applied in two split doses: 50% at the time of planting and the remaining 50% at the time of vine training or pegging. The fertilizer should be broadcasted uniformly around the plants and should be incorporated into the soil through light hoeing or raking. It is advisable to avoid excessive use of nitrogen fertilizers as it may lead to excessive vegetative growth and poor fruiting.
Conclusion
Pointed gourd crop can be a profitable crop if proper nutrient management practices are followed. The soil should be well-prepared, and the recommended dose of fertilizers and micronutrients should be applied in a balanced way. It is also important to avoid over-fertilization and do timely application at the right growth stages. With proper nutrient management, pointed gourd can be grown to get good yields with good quality fruits.